subject: What's A Green Event And How Can You Achieve Event Sustainability? [print this page] When it comes to event sustainability, the bar is being continually raised. It is no longer as simple as saying we need to run more green events, we now have to live with an increasing array of government regulations that dictate terms requiring us to minimise our carbon footprint and to run ecologically and environmentally sustainable events. Conference venues and function centres have to raise their standards to continue to attract companies that want to establish themselves as responsible corporate citizens.
Although a green event is easily defined as one which is environmentally friendly, event sustainability goes much further than this by quantifying elements of public events so that best practices can be implemented which cater for our environmental concerns.
If you are intending to run an event, whether by hosting it yourself or by using a public venue, you will need to be aware of the things which need to be done to ensure it is run in a sustainable manner.
Let's look at some things you can do to achieve proper event sustainability in the current economic and political climate.
Many businesses have been developing sustainable business strategies for many years. This development is in response to increasing shareholder concerns about possible environmental damage and any negative impacts upon global warming. The mission is to achieve sustainable growth but at the same time minimise the environmental footprint. In the event industry this is of equal concern and most responsible venues are beginning to implement policies and protocols which make it easier for users of their facilities to have a satisfactory outcome.
Make sure the venue you are using for your event is in complete alignment with government concerns and regulations.
Check that any associated accommodation you are using for staff whilst they attend your event also conducts their business within the similar guidelines.
Check the waste disposal policies of the accommodation venues and conference venues that you are using to ensure that environmental concerns are adequately catered for and that any government standards are being met. It is important to associate yourself with companies that operate under similar business principles to your own.
Use printed and promotional material that utilises recycled products and that you only use what you need. Be mindful of waste and you'll not only meet environmental concerns but also save money in the process.
Ensure that excessive travelling is not involved for attendees at your conference. Carbon emissions should be a vital part of your planning strategy, and minimising travel is a surefire way to making your event sustainable.
Any products used in the staging of your event, including audiovisual equipment, eating and drinking utensils and lighting should all be tested for their environmental impact.
All of these things point to one overiding goal and that is that environmental concerns should be at the root of every question asked and every product used in the staging of your event. Using conference venues that are sympathetic to this will ensure that you uphold the sustainability of your event.
